Bottlenose Dolphin
Pacific's sharpest ocean acrobat—watch them hunt and play from safe distance.
View guideExplore Channel Islands National Park
Wildlife
Learn which animals visitors may encounter and open a species guide for habitat, viewing advice and safety information.
12 wildlife guides Showing 1–12
California Sea Lion
Vocal ocean acrobat! Intelligent sea lions rule Channel Islands' rocky shores—spot them from safe overlooks May-August.
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Gray Whale
50-foot gray whales migrate through Channel Islands December-May. Spot them from park boats during peak season!
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Great Horned Owl
Nocturnal apex predator. Rarely seen — but that deep 'hoo-hoo-hoo' at dusk is unmistakable.
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Green Sea Turtle
Ocean's gentle herbivores! Green sea turtles graze seagrass and migrate epic distances through Channel Islands waters.
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Harbor Seal
Whisker-powered ocean hunters! Harbor seals haul on Channel Islands' rocky shores—maintain 25-yard viewing distance.
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Humpback Whale
A 40-ton giant famous for spectacular breaches and complex underwater songs.
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Loggerhead Sea Turtle
Ocean nomads! Loggerheads traverse global seas—glimpse them from boat tours around Channel Islands.
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Orca (Killer Whale)
Apex predators of the cold channels—watch for tall black dorsal fins slicing the surface.
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Sea Otter
The weasel that went to sea — floats on its back, uses rocks as tools, and rules the kelp forest.
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Steller Sea Lion
Absolute unit sea lions! Spot them hauled out on Channel Islands rocks—25 yards back, pure respect.
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